taking baby steps

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "taking baby steps" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe a gradual approach to achieving a goal or making progress in a situation, often implying that one should start small and build up over time. Example: "When learning a new language, it's important to start with the basics, taking baby steps before tackling more complex grammar."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

"We're taking baby steps.

The New York Times

"It's me kind of taking baby steps".

The New York Times

We talk about taking baby steps".

The Guardian - Sport

"We are taking baby steps toward democracy..

The Guardian

"This moving forward," he added, "it's like taking baby steps".

The New York Times

So Ms. Winfrey's baby will start out taking baby steps.

The New York Times

We are taking baby steps, but significant ones.

The Guardian - Sport

"We've got to keep developing and keep taking baby steps".

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

3 human-written examples

"Take baby steps first.

The New York Times - Sports

"You have to take baby steps.

The New York Times

"I just want to take baby steps".

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "taking baby steps" when you want to emphasize that progress is being made in small increments, especially when starting something new or overcoming a challenge. It conveys patience and a realistic approach to achieving a larger goal.

Common error

Avoid using "taking baby steps" when the progress being made is actually substantial or significant. This can downplay the achievement and misrepresent the situation. Instead, use phrases that accurately reflect the level of advancement.

Linguistic Context

The idiomatic phrase "taking baby steps" functions as a verbal phrase describing the manner in which an action is performed. It modifies a verb, indicating that the action is carried out in small, incremental stages. According to Ludwig, the expression is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

80%

Wiki

10%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the idiomatic phrase "taking baby steps" is a correct and commonly used expression to describe making gradual progress. As confirmed by Ludwig, it is widely employed across various contexts, with a prevalence in News & Media. It implies a careful and measured approach to achieving a larger goal. When using "taking baby steps", make sure the degree of advancement matches the situation; it's great for starting out but not for describing a giant leap. If you need alternatives, consider phrases like "making gradual progress" or "proceeding incrementally". Overall, this phrase effectively communicates the idea of small, consistent steps toward a larger objective.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

making gradual progress

Focuses on the gradual nature of the advancement without necessarily implying a small initial step.

proceeding incrementally

Highlights the step-by-step nature of the process, often in a more formal context.

advancing bit by bit

Emphasizes the small amounts of progress being made.

moving slowly forward

Focuses on slow pace and direction.

inching forward

Suggests very small movements, often against resistance.

going step by step

Highlights the methodical progression.

taking it one step at a time

Advises on a measured approach to avoid overwhelm.

crawling before walking

Implies a natural order of progression from basic to complex.

making headway slowly

Focuses on overcoming challenges to achieve gradual advancement.

building up gradually

Emphasizes the incremental construction of something over time.

FAQs

How can I use "taking baby steps" in a sentence?

"Taking baby steps" is used to describe making progress slowly and gradually. For example, "We are "taking baby steps" toward democracy".

What does "taking baby steps" mean?

The phrase "taking baby steps" means to proceed slowly and cautiously, making small advancements at a time. It implies a deliberate and measured approach to achieving a goal.

What are some alternatives to saying "taking baby steps"?

Alternatives to "taking baby steps" include "making gradual progress", "proceeding incrementally", or "advancing bit by bit".

In what situations is it appropriate to use the phrase "taking baby steps"?

It's appropriate to use "taking baby steps" when describing a process that requires patience and a step-by-step approach, such as learning a new skill, recovering from an injury, or implementing a long-term plan. This is just one step for victory and we're going to keep "taking baby steps".